Farm protest groups shift to policy proposals as minister rejects new plan

Leaders of the Landbouw Alliantie, a coalition of Dutch farmer groups, announced a coordinated strategy to reshape nitrogen policy, emphasizing a diagnostic first step before any treatment plan. Their proposal calls for more flexible nature permits and greater local autonomy near sensitive areas, ideas the government deems unrealistic based on court rulings. While the alliance seeks dialogue solely with Minister Jaimi van Essen, the minister reiterated that one outlet summer package will stay the foundation and that a wholly new plan will not be discussed.

The groups warned that if their concerns continue to be ignored, they may launch further actions, a sentiment echoed by Jeroen van Maanen of the Nederlandse Melkveehouders Vakbond. Existing sector bodies such as LTO and NAJK remain in talks with the cabinet, but the Alliance rejects joining those discussions. The minister indicated openness to individual suggestions but stressed the need to maintain the established measures.